A tragic incident occurred during the Juneteenth celebrations in Anderson County, South Carolina, when nearly a dozen people were shot, resulting in one death and several injuries. The shooting took place late on Saturday, June 21, near the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post in the county.
This event was part of the sixth annual Juneteenth celebration. Authorities confirmed that at least 10 people were injured in the shooting, which happened after a fight broke out in the neighborhood.
Details of the Shooting Incident
According to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), the shooting occurred along Scarborough Road, just before 11:00 p.m. local time. The altercation led to shots being fired in the area, causing chaos as people scattered in panic.
One person was tragically killed, and another was flown to Greenville Memorial Hospital with critical injuries. In total, at least 8 others were taken to nearby hospitals in Anderson and Greenville.
The ACSO described the scene as chaotic, with hundreds of people fleeing the area and leaving behind shoes and debris on the road.
Authorities worked quickly to secure the area, and more than 100 law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, firefighters, and other responders were on the scene.
Investigation and Law Enforcement Response
Law enforcement has confirmed that the shooting happened outside the Veterans of Foreign Wars post, but the VFW itself had no involvement in the Juneteenth event.
The suspect behind the shooting has not yet been identified, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. The ACSO has stated that detectives and deputies are working hard to understand the situation fully.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
This incident has shocked the local community, especially during an important celebration like Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
As of now, the situation remains under investigation, and law enforcement has yet to release further details about the suspect or any potential motives behind the shooting.
The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office has promised to keep the public informed as more details emerge and the investigation unfolds.
This tragic event highlights the importance of safety and peace during community celebrations. While the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of a senseless act of violence that disrupted what should have been a time of celebration and remembrance.
